Due to their rapidly declining numbers, lions are classified as a vulnerable species, with the Asiatic subspecies being listed as endangered. Despite his captivity, this lion maintains an air of dignity as he basks in the sunlight. His (granted, unwilling) sacrifice of freedom helps raise awareness of the plight of his species and benefits efforts toward its conservation.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington D.C.
400mm, f/8, ISO 2000, 1/800s
Canon 80D, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM